Guide to the Lifeline Assistance Program
Covered in this guide:
- Lifeline Program Overview
- Lifeline Program Eligibility and Restrictions
- How to Apply for the Lifeline Program
- Other Ways to Get Free Phone Service
- Where to Get Free Phones for Seniors
- Lifeline Program Information By State
Updated: July 12, 2023 | Reviewed by: Seana Kenefick
Today's seniors have experienced a lifetime filled with technological advances. They've witnessed the evolution of space exploration, incredible medical innovations and a complete transformation in how people communicate.
In the not so distant past, cellular phones were luxury items, but that's no longer the case. For many people, their mobile phone is an essential lifeline that connects them with friends and family, medical and social services, and emergency assistance. Smartphones can be used to access important information, stay up-to-date with the news, and even keep an eye on health concerns.
Unfortunately, cellular phone service can be cost-prohibitive for the 15 million Americans aged 65 and older who have incomes at or below 200% of the federal poverty level.
Having a reliable phone can help seniors remain safe and independent, reduce social isolation and combat age-related mental health concerns such as depression. Because of the many tangible benefits, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) created a program to help low-income seniors access free or discounted mobile phones, known as the Lifeline Assistance Program.
Lifeline Program Overview
Established in 1985, Lifeline is a nationwide program designed to help ensure that low-income households have access to affordable phone service.
The Federal Lifeline Program was first launched as a telecommunications subsidy that could only be applied to fixed landline telephone service. In 2005, the program was revised to give participants the ability to use their subsidy for either landline or mobile phone services.
The monthly Lifeline subsidy is paid directly to the telecommunications provider or phone company. In most cases, Lifeline participants can get free phone service, although a number of Lifeline carriers also offer discounted plans that require a monthly payment from the participant.
Lifeline Offers Mobile Phone, Data and Home Broadband Services
In 2016, the Lifeline program was modernized and updated again under the Lifeline Modernization Order. This update expanded Lifeline-eligible services to include mobile data services, at-home internet service (broadband) and bundled telecommunication packages with mobile, voice and broadband services. This means that Lifeline program beneficiaries can choose to apply their Lifeline subsidy toward a wide range of voice and data services, including cell phone plans, home phone service and mobile data plans.
Lifeline Program Eligibility and Restrictions
There are several ways to qualify for enrollment in the Lifeline program depending on your circumstances.
Eligibility Based on Income
Seniors need to have an annual income at or below 135% of the current federal poverty level in order to qualify for a free government-funded phone, based on how much money they earn. In all states except Alaska and Hawaii, the 2022 annual income limit for a single-person household is $18,347. In Alaska, this limit is $22,937, while in Hawaii, it's $21,101.
Eligibility Based on Government Benefits
Alternatively, low-income seniors and adults aged 18 and older who are currently enrolled in one of the following programs can receive Lifeline-subsidized phone, mobile data and/or broadband service:
- Medicaid
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Veterans' Pension and Survivors' Benefit
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Eligibility for Residents of Tribal Lands
Residents of Tribal Lands may also qualify for the Lifeline program if a member of their household is enrolled in one of these programs:
- Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
- Tribal Head Start
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
Lifeline Program Household Limits
Lifeline subsidies are limited to one per eligible household. For the purposes of the program, a household is defined as either an individual, or two or more people who live together and share their money. This would normally include married and common-law spouses, a parent or parents with one or more dependent children, and two or more unrelated adults who live together and support one another financially.
Individuals who are members of multiple household settings, such as a retirement or group home, or who have roommates who maintain separate finances, can apply for the Lifeline program as a single-person household.
Service and Recertification Requirements
Once enrolled in the Lifeline program, beneficiaries need to use it at least once a month (every 30 days) in order to maintain service and recertify their eligibility on an annual basis in order to keep their service active.
Lifeline enrollees in all states except California, Oregon and Texas are recertified by the USAC. Residents in those three states need to complete their annual recertification through their state's Lifeline administrator.
Recertification can be done online through the USAC website, or by completing and submitting a paper form along with any documentation to the Lifeline Support Center. Enrollees who don't need to provide documentation to recertify also have the option of recertifying by phone.
How to Apply for the Lifeline Program
Seniors can apply to the Lifeline program either online in the National Verifier application system or by printing and filling out a paper application and mailing it to:
USAC Lifeline Support Center
P.O. Box 7081
London, KY 40742
A benefit to applying online is the application process is streamlined by linking to federal records, and in many cases, the applicant's eligibility can be verified without providing any additional documentation.
Note that residents of California, Texas and Oregon must apply through their state-specific Lifeline program agencies.
California LifeLine
The California LifeLine Program is administered at the state level by the California Public Utilities Commission. It offers the same benefits as the national program, including access to free or discounted home or mobile phone service for eligible households.
Texas Lifeline
In Texas, the Lifeline program is managed by the Public Utility Commission of Texas. Seniors can complete the self-enrollment process online, or submit a paper application form by mail or fax.
Oregon Lifeline
Oregon's Lifeline program is operated by the Oregon Public Utility Commission. Applications can be submitted through the state's Lifeline service providers.
Other Ways to Get Free Phone Service
Lifeline Home Phone Service
While most eligible consumers prefer to use the Lifeline program to get a free or discounted cellular plan, some program participants choose to sign up for Lifeline home phone service.
It's important to note that each eligible person or household can only receive one Lifeline discount from one provider. This means that if you sign up for a free cell phone, you won't be able to get a Lifeline-sponsored landline (home phone) as well.
Free Emergency Cell Phones
In North America, deactivated cell phones can still be used to dial 9-1-1 as long as the phone is charged and in working order.
Many senior support programs, women's shelters and other social service agencies collect and distribute gently used, deactivated cell phones to those in need. Seniors who qualify for the Lifeline subsidy may want to consider using it to get free home phone service, and then find a deactivated cell phone for emergency use when they're away from home.
Where to Get Free Phones for Seniors
Seniors enrolled in the Lifeline program can get free phones to pair with their free phone service by contacting their phone service provider. The following table includes telecommunication providers who participate in the Lifeline program, the states they serve and how to contact them.
Provider | States Served | Contact Information |
Alabama | 1-800-464-6010 | |
American Assistance (offered by American Broadband & Telecommunications) | Colorado | 1-877-266-7212 |
Alaska (North Slope coast and west coast) | 1-800-478-6409 (Utqiagvik office) 1-800-478-6409 (Anchorage office) | |
Arkansas | 1-855-392-7747 | |
Assurance Wireless | Alabama | 1-888-321-5880 |
Arkansas | 1-855-655-3097 | |
Alaska | 1-800-235-5414 | |
Oklahoma | 1-888-792-0076 | |
Arizona | 1-866-488-8719 | |
FeelSafe Wireless | California | 1-877-247-7799 |
Alaska | 1-800-800-4800 | |
Georgia | 1-214-323-8000 | |
Arizona | 1-888-543-3620 | |
Louisiana | 1-855-204-3667 | |
Arkansas | 1-855-754-6543 | |
SafeLink Wireless | Alabama | 1-800-723-3546 |
California | 1-888-224-3213 | |
Arizona | 1-800-544-4441 | |
Arkansas | 1-469-450-3507 | |
Colorado | 1-833-998-3676 | |
Arkansas | 1-888-716-8880 | |
Arizona | 1-800-430-0443 | |
Arkansas | 1-877-412-1919 |
Lifeline Program Information By State
Lifeline Assistance Program in Alabama
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Alabama may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Alabama by visiting the state’s Public Service Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Alabama
Lifeline Assistance Program in Alaska
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Alaska may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Alaska by visiting the state’s Regulatory Commission.
Lifeline Providers in Alaska
Provider Name | Phone Number |
(800) 478-6409 (Utqiagvik office) (800) 478-6409 (Anchorage office) | |
(800) 377-9450 | |
(800) 235-5414 | |
(800) 800-4800 | |
(888) 801-0012 | |
(888) 543-3620 | |
(800) 430-0443 |
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Alaska
Lifeline Assistance Program in Arizona
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Arizona may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Arizona by visiting the state’s Corporation Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Arizona
Lifeline Assistance Program in Arkansas
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Arkansas may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Arkansas by visiting the state’s Public Service Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Arkansas
Lifeline Assistance Program in California
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in California may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in California by visiting the state’s Public Utilities Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in California
Lifeline Assistance Program in Colorado
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Colorado may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Colorado by visiting the state’s Broadband Office.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Colorado
Lifeline Assistance Program in Connecticut
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Connecticut may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Connecticut by visiting the state’s Public Utilities Regulatory Authority.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Connecticut
Lifeline Assistance Program in Delaware
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Delaware may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Delaware by visiting the state’s Public Service Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Delaware
Lifeline Assistance Program in Florida
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Florida may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Florida by visiting the state’s Office of Public Counsel.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Florida
Lifeline Assistance Program in Georgia
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Georgia may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Georgia by visiting the state’s Public Service Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Georgia
Lifeline Assistance Program in Hawaii
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Hawaii may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Hawaii by visiting the state’s Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Hawaii
Lifeline Assistance Program in Idaho
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Idaho may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Idaho by visiting the state’s Federal Communications Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Idaho
Lifeline Assistance Program in Illinois
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Illinois may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Illinois by visiting the state’s Commerce Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Illinois
Lifeline Assistance Program in Indiana
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Indiana may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Indiana by visiting the state’s Office of Utility Consumer Counselor.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Indiana
Lifeline Assistance Program in Iowa
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Iowa may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Iowa by visiting the state’s Utilities Board.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Iowa
Lifeline Assistance Program in Kansas
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Kansasmay be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Kansas by visiting the state’s Corporation Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Kansas
Lifeline Assistance Program in Kentucky
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Kentucky may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Kentucky by visiting the state’s Public Service Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Kentucky
Lifeline Assistance Program in Louisiana
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Louisiana may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Louisiana by visiting the state’s Department of Children and Family Services.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Louisiana
Lifeline Assistance Program in Maine
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Maine may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Maine by visiting the state’s Public Utilities Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Maine
Lifeline Assistance Program in Maryland
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Maryland may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Maryland by visiting the state’s Public Service Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Maryland
Lifeline Assistance Program in Massachusetts
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Massachusetts may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Massachusetts by visiting the state’s Department of Telecommunications and Cable.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Massachusetts
Lifeline Assistance Program in Michigan
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Michigan may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Michigan by visiting the state’s Public Service Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Michigan
Lifeline Assistance Program in Minnesota
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Minnesota may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Minnesota by visiting the state’s Commerce Department.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Minnesota
Lifeline Assistance Program in Mississippi
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Mississippi may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Mississippi by visiting the state’s Public Utilities Staff.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Mississippi
Lifeline Assistance Program in Missouri
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Missouri may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Missouri by visiting the state’s Public Service Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Missouri
Lifeline Assistance Program in Montana
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Montana may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Montana by visiting the state’s Public Service Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Montana
Lifeline Assistance Program in Nebraska
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Nebraska may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Nebraska by visiting the state’s Public Service Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Nebraska
Lifeline Assistance Program in Nevada
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Nevada may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Nevada by visiting the state’s Public Service Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Nevada
Lifeline Assistance Program in New Hampshire
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in New Hampshire may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in New Hampshire by visiting the state’s Public Service Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in New Hampshire
Lifeline Assistance Program in New Jersey
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in New Jersey may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in New Jersey by visiting the state’s Department of Human Services and Division of Aging Services.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in New Jersey
Lifeline Assistance Program in New Mexico
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in New Mexico may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in New Mexico by visiting the state’s Public Regulation Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in New Mexico
Lifeline Assistance Program in New York
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in New York may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in New York by visiting the state’s Public Service Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in New York
Lifeline Assistance Program in North Carolina
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in North Carolina may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in North Carolina by visiting the state’s Department of Health and Human Services.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in North Carolina
Lifeline Assistance Program in North Dakota
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in North Dakota may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in North Dakota by visiting the state’s Public Service Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in North Dakota
Lifeline Assistance Program in Ohio
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Ohio may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Ohio by visiting the state’s Office of the Consumers’ Counsel.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Ohio
Lifeline Assistance Program in Oklahoma
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Oklahoma may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Oklahoma by visiting the state’s Corporation Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Oklahoma
Lifeline Assistance Program in Oregon
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Oregon may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Oregon by visiting the state’s Public Utility Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Oregon
Lifeline Assistance Program in Pennsylvania
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Pennsylvania may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Pennsylvania by visiting the state’s Public Utility Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Pennsylvania
Lifeline Assistance Program in Rhode Island
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Rhode Island may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Rhode Island by visiting the state’s Public Utility Commission and Division of Public Utilities and Carriers.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Rhode Island
Lifeline Assistance Program in South Carolina
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in South Carolina may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in South Carolina by visiting the state’s Office of Regulatory Staff.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in South Carolina
Lifeline Assistance Program in South Dakota
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in South Dakota may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in South Dakota by visiting the state’s Public Utilities Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in South Dakota
Lifeline Assistance Program in Tennessee
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Tennessee may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Tennessee by visiting the state’s Public Utility Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Tennessee
Lifeline Assistance Program in Texas
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Texas may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Texas by visiting the state’s Public Utility Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Texas
Lifeline Assistance Program in Utah
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Utah may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Utah by visiting the state’s Division of Public Utilities.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Utah
Lifeline Assistance Program in Vermont
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Vermont may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Vermont by visiting the state’s Department of Public Service.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Vermont
Lifeline Assistance Program in Virginia
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Virginia may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Virginia by visiting the state’s Corporation Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Virginia
Lifeline Assistance Program in Washington
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Washington may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Washington by visiting the state’s Health Care Authority.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Washington
Lifeline Assistance Program in West Virginia
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in West Virginia may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in West Virginia by visiting the state’s Public Service Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in West Virginia
Lifeline Assistance Program in Wisconsin
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Wisconsin may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Wisconsin by visiting the state’s Public Service Commission.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Wisconsin
Lifeline Assistance Program in Wyoming
The Lifeline program provides discounted or free phones to qualifying individuals nationwide, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Seniors in Wyoming may be eligible for a free landline or mobile phone through the program. You can learn more about the Lifeline program in Wyoming by visiting the state’s Department of Family Services.
Lifeline Program Eligibility in Wyoming
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of cell phone can seniors get for free through the lifeline program?
While the Lifeline program only funds telecommunication services, rather than hardware such as cell phones, a number of telecommunications companies offer free phones or free SIM cards to Lifeline beneficiaries.
Seniors will find that a number of Lifeline-eligible carriers offer free basic cell phones and smartphones to customers who enroll in a Lifeline-subsidized cell phone plan. These phones tend to be from lesser-known manufacturers, although some Lifeline carriers do offer free Apple iPhones, Samsung Galaxy phones and other well-known but older devices.
Does Lifeline free cell phone service include the internet?
Yes. The Lifeline program has been updated to include mobile data and broadband services, which is what you'll need to use the internet on your Lifeline-sponsored free cell phone.
This allows users to access social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter, watch free videos, check the weather and use apps on their Lifeline smartphone.
Can the Lifeline subsidy be used on a cell phone I already own?
Yes, depending on the make and model of the cell phone, and the carrier you select.
Whether your existing device can be activated on a free Lifeline cell phone plan depends on if your phone is supported by the carrier's network. Many older cell phones use outdated technology, which means they simply won't work with modern communication networks.
What is the maximum monthly Lifeline subsidy?
In most cases, Lifeline participants qualify for a monthly subsidy of $9.25 toward network access fees. This can include voice, text and mobile broadband services.
Eligible subscribers who reside on Tribal lands may qualify for a subsidy of up to $34.25 per month, and up to $100 toward any connection or activation fees associated with their Lifeline-funded services.
What happens if Lifeline participants stop using their subsidized phone service?
In order to maintain their Lifeline service, Lifeline participants must use their phone at least once every 30 days. If a Lifeline subscriber fails to use their subsidized phone service within any given 30-daysssssssss
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